Practice Makes Perfect at NCH’s Judith and Marvin Family Herb Simulation Center You’ve no doubt seen medical simulation taking place on your favorite medical television show; the newly-minted surgeons adjourning to a special room where they can practice their procedure over and over again – until they get it right.
At the simulation center, two or three learners participate in an exact mock-up of an ICU room, an emergency room, or a hospital room with either a high- definition mannequin or standardized patient. The mannequins can simulate coughing, talking, crying, and even track you with their eyes. Learners are immersed in the scenario while other students watch them perform.
Well, medical simulation isn’t just for TV – it exists right here, right now at NCH’s Baker Campus – with a temporary, 8,000 square-foot facility dedicated to training healthcare professionals. A brand-new state-of-the-art facility that will expand floor space to 10,000 square feet and feature the best in simulation equipment and technology is currently in the planning and fundraising stages. The simulation center was initiated about five years ago by educator Judith Herb and her husband, Marvin Herb, in discussions with NCH administrators. Along with their altruism and the gifts of other generous donors, the goal of $15 million will make the center a reality. With a projected completion date in Spring 2021, NCH’s Herb Simulation Center will be the only fully multidisciplinary simulation center between Miami and Tampa. “Medical simulation is an experiential teaching technique in which the learner practices in a situation that mimics a real-life event, including complexities and distractions that are present in the real clinical setting,” said Douglas W. Harrington, DO, FCCP, Pulmonary and Critical Care, Medical Director of the Herb Simulation Center. Mayo Clinic mentor, Dr. Leslie Simon, noted Dr. Harrington’s teaching abilities through his work with the Internal Medicine Residency program and suggested he undertake a simulation fellowship. For one year, after fulfilling his regular ICU physician duties, he completed a fellowship at Mayo Clinic. “I was logging 80 plus hours a week, but it gave me the tools to teach, open, manage and run a simulation center,” said Dr. Harrington. “The center uses an experiential learning method that immerses learners into a simulated scenario that mimics a real-life event, that is tied to an emotional component.” While only 15% of information is retained through traditional classroom teaching, 90% is retained through experiential learning, he added.
Educators sit behind one-way frosted glass and manipulate the mannequins, using an earbud to direct the experience. Most processes take about 10 to 20 minutes. Afterward, the learners debrief, and the class discusses the experience with the educator. Eventually, the Herb Sim Center will open to ancillary medical staff, first responders, police and firefighters, and businesses. For more information about sponsorship opportunities or ways to donate, contact Monica Biondo, NCH Center for Philanthropy at (239) 624-2000 or philanthropy@nchmd.org . Additional information is available at this YouTube video link: https://youtu.be/Uxwg05ZlnQU
Douglas W. Harrington, DO, FCCP, Pulmonary and Critical Care, Associate Program Director Internal Medicine Residency Program, Medical Director NCH Multidisciplinary Simulation Center, Adjunct Assistant Professor Medicine Mayo Clinic School of Medicine and Science.
NCH Multidisciplinary Simulation Center
NCH Multidisciplinary Simulation Center
Newly Issued Dietary Guidelines Feature Early Childhood Choices We have long known that healthy food choices promote good health by maintaining a healthy body weight while avoiding chronic disease. The USDA’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans have been updated to include, for the first time, unique recommendations for each stage of the lifespan; infants and toddlers, children and adolescents, adults, pregnant women and adults over the age of 60. The Dietary Guidelines have been reissued every five years since 1980 based on the most recent scientific findings.
Key Recommendations according to Life Stage:
Infants to Toddlers: Encourage infants and toddlers to consume a variety of complementary foods and beverages to meet energy and nutrient needs. Introduce peanut- containing foods (with a pediatrician’s blessing) along with other potential allergenic foods at about 4 to 6 months of age. Evidence suggests that children introduced to these potential allergens at these early ages are less likely to develop life-threatening allergies. Avoid foods with added sugar before age 2.
Children to Adolescents: With 41 percent of American children considered overweight, the guideline emphasizes the importance of nutrient-rich foods that nourish the body’s fuel requirements without adding excess calories. Adults: The report stresses the importance of changing unhealthy eating habits and behaviors to prevent disease, thereby extending physical and social independence into old age.
Pregnant and Lactating Women: The increased calorie and nutrient needs for these life stages should be met by consuming nutrient-dense food choices as part of a healthy dietary pattern. Seniors: Older adults can improve dietary intake by increasing consumption of fruit, vegetables, whole grains and dairy, while also ensuring protein intake meets recommendations. Calorie needs are generally lower.
All age groups are urged to restrict the intake of added sugars, saturated fats and alcoholic beverages. Individuals 12 months through older adulthood should follow a healthy dietary pattern across the lifespan to meet nutrient needs, help achieve a healthy body weight and reduce the risk of chronic disease.
For more information on nutrition, contact the Von Arx Diabetes & Nutrition Health Center at (239) 624-3450 .
2
NCH HEALTHCARE SYSTEM | Helping everyone live a longer, happier, and healthier life.
MARCH 2021
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online